Italian Lemon Pound Cake Recipe

Introduction

Lemon pound cake is a beloved dessert that combines the richness of a buttery cake with the fresh, zesty notes of lemon. While this version has its roots in the traditional pound cake, the addition of Italian ingredients and techniques elevates it to a new level of flavor. The light yet dense texture and tangy lemon glaze make it an irresistible treat.

Ingredients

For the cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• ½ cup buttermilk, room temperature
• 2 tbsp Italian Limoncello (optional, for an extra lemony kick)

For the glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.

2. Make the Cake Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice.

Gradually add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. If using, stir in the Limoncello.

3. Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The cake should be golden brown and firm to the touch.

4. Make the Lemon Glaze

While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add a bit more lemon juice to reach your desired consistency.

5. Cool and Glaze

Once the cake has finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. Drizzle the lemon glaze over the cooled cake, allowing it to soak into the top.

Methods and Tips

• Lemon Zest: To get the best lemon zest, use a fine grater or microplane. Be sure to avoid the bitter white pith beneath the zest.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even mixing.
• Limoncello: While optional, Limoncello adds a vibrant Italian flair to the cake. You can also substitute it with more lemon juice or simply leave it out.

History of Lemon Pound Cake

Lemon pound cake has roots in the classic pound cake, which originated in England in the 18th century. Pound cake gets its name from the traditional recipe, which called for one pound each of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. Over time, this simple recipe evolved and was adapted in various cultures. In Italy, the pound cake was often made with the bright, tangy flavors of citrus fruits, particularly lemons, which are abundant in Italian cuisine. The addition of fresh lemon zest and juice gives this cake a distinctive citrusy bite, making it a refreshing choice for any season.

Benefits of Lemon Pound Cake

• Vitamin C: The fresh lemon zest and juice in the cake provide a dose of Vitamin C, which supports your immune system.
• Energy Boosting: The sugar and carbs in the cake offer a quick source of energy, making it a delightful pick-me-up.
• Mood-Enhancing: The scent of lemon is known for its uplifting and refreshing qualities. Enjoying a slice of lemon pound cake can help lift your spirits!

Nutrition Facts (Per Slice – 1/10th of cake)

• Calories: 300 kcal
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Sugar: 25g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Cholesterol: 65mg
• Sodium: 160mg

Conclusion

Italian Lemon Pound Cake is a perfect blend of sweet, tart, and rich flavors. The buttery texture combined with the bright lemony zing makes it a refreshing and indulgent treat. Whether served as a dessert after dinner or with a cup of tea or coffee, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. With its easy preparation and delightful finish, it’s an ideal cake for holidays, gatherings, or just a simple afternoon snack.

For Lemon Cake Lovers

If you’re a lover of citrus desserts, this Italian Lemon Pound Cake will become your go-to recipe. It’s the ideal balance of sweetness and tartness, and it’s perfect for pairing with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a dollop of mascarpone cheese for an even more indulgent treat.

Enjoy baking this delicious Italian Lemon Pound Cake!